The leader of the union for Boston police officers has stated that the individuals involved in recent disturbances in the city were serious about engaging with law enforcement.
On October 5, just after 2 a.m., Boston police reported that over 100 participants were involved in a street racing hijacking, during which many attempted to assault a patrol car using fireworks, cones, poles, and various objects. One police vehicle unfortunately caught fire and sustained significant damage, necessitating a tow.
Larry Calderon, president of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association, remarked that the participants were clearly intent on attacking the police. “They knew what they were going to do and they were frantically attacking the officers,” he noted. Although such events aren’t common, this one escalated alarmingly.
Calderon mentioned that the disturbances spanned across four neighborhoods before culminating in the South End, which, in his view, appeared premeditated. “What happened last weekend got out of control and became more aggressive at each stop. By the time they reached downtown, it seemed very orchestrated,” he explained.
WATCH: Boston Police cruiser engulfed in flames during road occupation
“If you’re coming from outside Boston just to threaten or assault our police, we don’t want you here,” Calderon expressed. He pointed out that it had been over a year since he’d seen such a street occupation, and this incident felt notably different. “It’s a serious issue with the clear assault on officers. Making noise and spinning tires is one thing, but attacking officers and disrupting public peace is utterly unacceptable,” he stated.
Eyewitness Simran Nalhatra described the scene as chaotic. “It felt like a riot,” she recalled. “I saw someone getting arrested and then looked over to see a police car engulfed in flames. It was terrifying. I didn’t understand the loud noises at first, but the screaming lasted for a couple of hours.”
Among those arrested were Julian Bowers, 18, and William Cantwell, 19, both from Rhode Island. They face serious charges including assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, and malicious damage to property over $1,200.
Bowers is accused of throwing objects at officers and their cruiser, while Cantwell allegedly used a pole to damage the vehicle. Both pleaded not guilty in court, where bail was set at $500 for Bowers and $1,000 for Cantwell. They reportedly celebrated the bail amounts after learning them, despite prosecutors requesting much higher cash bail.
